Finished Your Shopping Yet? Here’s How To Do It Right Here In Des Moines

by Brenda Anders
Photos by Michael Brunk

Did you know that you could finish up that holiday shopping list and not even leave the city limits of Des Moines?

Sure, anyone can get a gift card from the kiosk at the grocery store but that is sort of cheating and not very adventurous!  If you are going the gift card route, why not venture into town and pick up a gift certificate to one of our many local businesses who would love to have your business.  You can get your favorite local nail/hair salon gift certificates or choose from our many delicious local restaurants that aren’t represented at that kiosk.

You could take the easy way out or you could put some thought into it and get creative.  Yes I am saying it: “Creative shopping in Des Moines.” Can’t be done you say?  Oh you are so wrong!  Not only can you finish your gift shopping on about a dollar of gas, but you can avoid crowded malls, meet your local businesses owners and help to stimulate our own city’s economy.

Here are a few of my ideas.

• Des Moines Cinema gift certificates are great for kids of all ages.



• How about a bottle of wine or nifty accoutrement from CorkyCellars for the host of that party you are attending or your favorite wine connoisseur? (Wow, I had to break out the dictionary for that last sentence.)

• Don’t forget to stop next door and pick up a bouquet of flowers at Marine View Florist

to bring as well.

• This is of course after you have dropped of that great Santa picture to be framed at Village Frame.
• Which brings me to a delicious idea, a gift certificate from B&E Meats…nothing says happy holidays like Tri-Tip!
• Jewelry can be found at Kimberly’s on 7th Ave.  I can personally guarantee that you can’t go wrong with diamonds!  Not entirely sure?  They have gift cards.
• Ready to get healthy? Got you covered with gift certificates from Ascension Wellness & Health Spa.
• Brown Bear Car Wash “paw packs” make awesome stocking stuffers.
• Tired of being the computer geek, I mean technician, for your family and friends?  Try EC Computers by Balloon Wizards/Cupcakes NorthWest.  They have geeks on staff!  Right here in your back yard!
• Pets?  Easy!  Soggy Doggy, Paw Spa, and Best in Show all have special treats for our friend’s furry family members.
• Furney’s Nursery may not be on your radar but they have gift cards and your favorite gardener would love to have one!
• Birthdays or bridal/baby showers close to Christmas?  Keeping up with the Griswold’s in your holiday decorating and party ideas?  I have the answer: Balloon Wizards/BabyCakes NorthWest which is just down from the Des Moines Cinema and next to the new All Star Sports Bar (not open yet, sorry).
• Not a lot of cash?  Annie’s Attic, also on 7th, is the place for your small children needs and Budget Boutique, by the Dog House, for mom or grandma.
• Dushan’s, in the same complex as Salon Michelle and Jack’s Diner, is a great place for clothing.
• Best place for collectibles, unique gift ideas and special cards is of course Des Moines Drug and Hallmark.

If none of this tickles your fancy you can always head up to Bartell’s, Walgreens or Ace Hardware.  All are packed with great gift ideas for not a lot of money.  All of your gift wrapping needs and stocking stuffers are there for you!  Don’t forget to pick up the bottle of aspirin for the day after.

Here is the bottom line: our local businesses, many who support our local events, charities, school PTAs and sports teams, need our help.  We must do what we can.  We all talk about having a stronger downtown business core but we forget that we have to drop a few dollars downtown to help make it happen.

At the very least remember to shop and eat right here in Des Moines and a portion of the sales tax stays here which ultimately benefits you!